Route 59 Bridge Work Underway as Part of $7.6 Million Project

By Y.M. Lowy

Drivers traveling along Route 59 near Bates Drive in Monsey may have noticed major construction work taking place, as crews continue work on the bridge over the Thruway in the area.

According to information provided to RocklandDaily by the New York State Thruway Authority, the work currently underway includes painting the steel structure of the Route 59 bridge along with the railing on top of the bridge.

The Route 59 work is part of a broader $7.6 million project involving five bridges over the Thruway throughout Rockland County. Two of the bridges are located in Ramapo, including the Route 59 bridge and the Fourth Street bridge in Hillburn. The remaining three bridges are in Orangetown near Exit 10 in South Nyack.

The Route 59 bridge portion of the project is expected to be completed this summer, while the full multi bridge project is scheduled to continue through summer 2027.

Large protective coverings have been installed around sections of the bridge during the work. The containment system is designed to prevent paint and debris from dispersing into the surrounding area during construction.

The project will involve both daytime and nighttime work, though significant traffic is not expected on either Route 59 or the Thruway itself. Pedestrians will still be able to access the sidewalk on the bridge, but are advised to remain alert and follow posted signs around the work zone.

The paint acts as a protective barrier against corrosion and helps extend the lifespan of structural steel. Fresh paint can also make it easier for inspectors to identify developing issues before they become more serious.